Military Jacket
This must have item ticks 2 important trend boxes and is therefore (also) already in my winter wardrobe. I caved into this TopShop jacket before it went on sale. Boo. Last week it was marked down to about R600, follow @Topshop.SA on Twitter for more updates. Studs and camo are hot, hot, hot. You’ll find studs on just about anything coming into store now and during Paris fashion week there wasn’t a self respecting fashionista not spotted in an interpretation of the ‘In the army now’ trend. It’s such a quirky, bad ass way to funk up winter. Transcend this trend into camo printed skinny denims, olive tees and distressed denim. You can go all Posh and Becks as this trend is also seriously big for men.
Metallic Knits
Metallic knits are probably the easiest thing to wear in the whole wide world. Wear it under jackets and coats or over long sleeved tees. Wear them with tights and denims. Wear them to bed after too many bottles of Merlot. I love love love the gold, silver or black options available just about anywhere. You definitely want for a subtle version of each, the look is not about bling. Its about quiet twinkle. Buy loads to mix and match, use and re-use all winter. Plus, they’re light weight enough to carry through to spring. G Couture and Sass have some nice options online at Zando (http://www.zando.co.za/women/clothing/knitwear/). The trick is to buy a size bigger than you usually wear to create that real slouchy, comfy fit. I’m also not opposed to snipping through the neckline to create an off the shoulder vibe.
Muted Nails
Just like the colours of our wardrobe tone down as the brrrrr-o-metre increases so should the colour of our nails. Yes, we’ve all seen the nail art hysteria but I’m more interested in these glorious Chanel nail lacquer options. Granted fire engine red nails know no particular season but greys, stone and black are a definite must do this winter.
The Cropped Boot
The cropped boot is the extension of last season’s ankle boot. This winter she is back with embellishment and a bit of Cowgirl heel. From the moment I slapped eyes on the new Woolworths Winter campaign I knew their leopard print suede version of ‘the cropped boot’ and I were going to be lovers, especially at only R299 (http://www.woolworths.co.za/Home/Animal-Print-Suede-Ankle-Boots/501965246.pid). They definitely won’t do well in really awful weather but they shall be the belle of the ball at every arm and cosy pub I stumble into.
The Riding Boot
Everyone from Gwen Stefani to Gwyneth Paltrow rocked the thigh high riding boot. It’ll be your go-to-piece this winter. She works with denim, tights, skirts and shorts. You want to channel your equestrian self and pair with a fitted jacket over a slouchy jersey. The riding boot will be your best accessory in rain, mud, sleet and snow. It’s no wonder she’s the biggest trend this winter. I’ve already bagged a tan pair from Nine West (http://www.ninewestsouthafrica.co.za/products.aspx?id=103).
Faux Leather Leggings
Last but not least, faux leather leggings shall be your skinny denims wingman. Don’t confuse faux leather leggings with last winter’s black wet look leggings. They’re different. I promise. I strongly suggest you head to down to Cotton On and buy yourself a pair as they have the best version.
With these 6 easy to find pieces you’ll stay uber hot this bitter winter.